Happy 6th Birthday!

Happy Birthday to my sweet little girl! You have been asking about your birthday for 6 months! I know you are excited to be getting big, but I want you to stay little forever. I love snuggling with you and reading books, particularly, Pride and Prejudice. It is something I look forward to every night. You give the best hugs and have the sweetest smile. You are friendly, thoughtful, spiritual, and full of tenacity. You don't give up when something is hard. I love you so much and am honored to be your mother. Happy Birthday.

New Puppy

After many YEARS of begging for a puppy, we just surprised our children with this cutie. I didn't think I was that much of a "dog person", but this little guy has won my heart. While I was away with the kids on vacation, "T" found this puppy on the internet and called me to see if I was interested. What?!! A dog?!! We're trying to move!! Bad timing! Then, without warning, I was suddenly finding myself hoping that "T" would go and get it. So, I kept calling and asking if he had. My phone calls pushed him right out the door and out to buy a dog. The kids were so excited and surprised when we got home from our trip to see him playing in our back yard. They are all in love with him. We are all excited to have him as a part of our family.
He (we have yet to decide on a name ... any suggestions?) is a Newfoundland which will grow to be a really big dog. They are suppose to be really great with children. You know "NaNa" the nurse dog on Peter Pan? She is a Newfoundland. Now, if only I could teach this puppy to do the laundry, clean up the toys and tuck the kids into bed. Well, I'll just be happy if we can teach him to not tinkle on the carpet!

Introducing ........ Stay tuned for what his name will be.

Seriously, isn't he SO CUTE?

Deep In The Heart Of Texas

A couple of weeks ago, I went on a road trip with my mom and children to go and see my sister. We had so much fun! The kids played and swam hard (minus a couple of days for our #1 due to a very bad sunburn ... the kind that doesn't allow you to lift your arms, or put a shirt on for 3 days :( Thanks goodness for Silverdine (sp) it saved his skin! My mom, sister and I got pedicures, hair cuts, ate awesome food, played Scabble, tried new recipes, went to see Andrea Bocelli and Il Divo. It was so much fun. Thanks Mom and Big Sis, for such fun memories. I love you both SO MUCH! Can't wait for a rematch in Scrabble! :)

Air Show

Hanging out with our good friends, the Cook's, at the Air Show.

This airplane is massive! It can fit 4 school buses in a row!

It was a little too big for Caleb. He was nervous.

Collin Receiving His Yellow Belt In Tae Kwon Do

After working very hard, Collin earned his yellow belt in his Tae Kwon Do class. He was so excited and felt a real sense of accomplishment. I was so proud of him. In order to earn his yellow belt, in addition to passing off his forms and kicks, he had to write and essay on the history of Tae Kwon Do and its 5 tenents which are: Self Control, Courtesy, Perseverance, Integrity, and Indomitable Spirit. His instructor told the class that he had written one of the best essays she had read. He was beaming. Great job, Collin!

Field Day - A Picture Says 1000 Words

Lila's Kindergarten Graduation

Today was Lila's Kindergarten Graduation. It was darling. I had to seriously hold back the tears. I'm such a sap.

Lila and her wondrful teacher Mrs. LeBaron.

Lila recieving her diploma... right as a man sat up and cast a shadow on my picture. Grrrr

The Life of a TWEENAGER!

Tweenager trying to make caramel.... by himself.... without a parent. Grrr.

Father's and Son's

Last weekend was the traditional Father's and Son's camp out. The boys always look forward to this time when they get to hang out with dad, eat junk food galore, sleep in their clothes and not be nagged by moi to brush their teeth. They had a great time.

While they were gone, Lila and I played a fierce game of Scrabble :), Guess Who, had snacks, and read books in bed until we both fell asleep. We had a great time, too.

Collin and Braden hanging on for dear life.